My wish for this spring is to have time to visit, and possibly have some lessons, at La Scuola del Gusto in Gambassi Terme. The lattest is a village not far from Florence, only 40 km, originally a thermal bath location turned, in centuries, into a lively community on the green hills of the Tuscan Country. La Scuola del Gusto, as its name suggests, is a school for foodies and people who want to learn how to cook very simple but delicious meals in the genuine Tuscan tradition. Classes are small and friendly and in English or Italian. And the School is in an old real school building were kids stopped to go at the end of the 90's.The products used during classes are produced directly in the nearby fields since the School has been created by the producers themselves. They have started their activity two weeks ago but they have been in this business for their all lives! The producers of veggies and fruits also sell on the spot so you can really come to love their produces. Crostini, pappa col pomodoro, farinata col cavolo nero, tagliatelle ai funghi, bruschette con l'olio al tartufo, pollo al mattone... I can't wait to start learning.

Frances Kallye for Toscana Extra